SPIRITS refuse to dampen at this weekend's Witney Food and Drink Festival, as visitors turn out in force to try some of the finest foodie delights.

The popular festival is at St. Mary's Church on Church Green today and tomorrow for the fourth year running, and is already looking busy despite the wet weather.

The event will run from 9.30am to 5pm and was officially opened at 10am by this year's festival champion and festival enthusiast, John Rustage of Witney butcher Hoggys Hog Shop.

Committee member for the festival Lizzi Hocken said: "The cafe and bar will be open all day to feed the festival spirit and live performances from local musicians and dancers will keep the crowds entertained on Church Green.

"Just don't leave without chancing your arm on the tombola and buying a raffle ticket, there are cash prizes."

There will also be food and farm-themed activities for children such as milking a pretend cow and learning how to make butter.

New to the tent this year, Michelle Keating from Salt Box Music will run 30 minute sessions to get children learning how to dance.

Festival patron and TV presenter and comedian, Alexander Armstrong, added: "What we have started here is a rhythm that I hope will beat on year on year. The quantity and quality of all the contributions goes up and up and exceeds all expectations."

This year 70 stall holders will be showcasing a range of artisan produce for visitors to sample.

Visit witneyfoodfestival.co.uk for more. Entry is £3 on the door and children under 12 go free.